Sol Area of Madrid, Spain After 5:00 pm

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a group of people in front of a statue of a man on a horse — Puerta del Sol, en Madrid by Jorge Franganillo, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Madrid is an incredible city and the capital of Spain. There are a lot of things to do including beautiful historic buildings, stunning parks and of course some of the best nightlife in Europe. If you are in the Sol area of Madrid after 5:00 pm, there is still plenty to see and do.

Madrid has a lot to offer and the area around Sol is especially popular among tourists. If you only have time to see one thing, I would recommend stopping by the Plaza Major. This is one of the most famous squares in Spain and it’s absolutely beautiful. Plus, you can visit it for free so it’s a fantastic budget-friendly thing to do in Madrid.

How to Get to Madrid in Spain

Madrid has a large international airport, so you can easily get to the city from all around the world. Once you land you can get directly into the metro, so there is no need for an expensive airport transport. Of course, trains are also an option if you’re arriving from somewhere else in Spain. Atocha is the main train station in Madrid and easily accessible.

Madrid has a fantastic public transport system that is not only affordable but also reliable. For 10 subway rides you only pay 12.20€, which is incredibly affordable. However, you probably won’t even need to use the metro very much. Madrid is very walkable so you can get to everywhere, especially in the Sol area, on foot.

Where to Eat Dinner in the Sol Area of Madrid

Madrid has a fantastic selection of restaurants. Some of the best include authentic Spanish pubs such as Malapina which is located in the southern parts just below Sol. You have to try the pimientos al padron here which are absolutely delicious.

One of the best places to have tacos in Madrid is Takos al Pastor. Located in the heart of Sol this little Mexican restaurant is always crowded and one of the hottest places to eat around the neighbourhood.

Madrid has some of the best indoor food markets around. You need to try Yatai Market which has authentic Asian food from several countries. Prices aren’t as affordable as other spots but the food is the best.

Leave the streets of Madrid and get a few of Sol from above. The Gourmet Experience on top of Corte Ingles and grab delicious tapas while you enjoy the views.

Finally, the Taverna Alhambra is not only a fantastic spot to take photos but the food is just as delicious. The tortilla is to die for and prices are very reasonable.

Things to Do in Sol Area of Madrid at Night

Madrid is all about rooftops. You need to visit at least one during your stay. After 5pm is the best palace to visit the Emperador or WXYZ rooftops as the sun stands at an angle making the views even better.

Sol is all about nightlife. Grab a drink at some of Madrid’s best bars and enjoy the low prices that the city is known for. 5pm is the perfect time to go before you struggle to find a table later on.

You might be surprised but shopping is one of the best things to do in Madrid in the evening. This is when the city comes to life and since shops are open until 10:00 pm, you have plenty of time to find the perfect new outfit.

Sol gets its name from the Puerta del Sol, a giant plaza in the heart of the neighbourhood. In the evenings a lot of street musicians and performers come here so a visit is always worth it.

The Mercado de San Miguel is located right next to Plaza Major and is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in town. Grab an early dinner here and don’t forget to pack your camera!

Life in Madrid happens in the evenings. After 5:00 pm is the best time to visit!